My vision faded, and I closed my eyes, surrendering to the embrace of eternal slumber.
In those fleeting moments, a saying from my cultural heritage resurfaced in my mind. It posited the immortality of the soul, suggesting that the body is a mere vessel while the soul transitions from one form to another, akin to humans changing clothes, fulfilling its destined purpose.
Once, I scoffed at such beliefs, questioning the purpose that lay before me...
But now, as the darkness enveloped me, I found myself yearning for the truth in those words.
And then, darkness became my sole companion, its familiarity lending a sense of warmth and kinship. It beckoned me towards its embrace.
After an indeterminate span of time (1), light emerged, or rather, I perceived its ethereal presence. Every fiber of my being longed to traverse its luminescent path.
Drawing nearer, I transcended the boundaries of light.
Suddenly, a tapestry of blinding brilliance unfolded before my eyes.
Summoning every ounce of strength, I struggled to open my eyes. Through a haze of blurred vision, I discerned...
Women. Three, perhaps even four, figures stood before me.
Upon seeing their faces, tears cascaded from my eyes, flowing unbidden and unrestrained.
Meanwhile, the cries of a newborn pierced the air, growing in intensity with each passing moment.
Amidst the joyous cacophony, the humans remained oblivious, their smiles belying the confusion that enveloped me.
Grasping for comprehension, I gradually opened my eyes wider. As I beheld their countenances, I couldn't help but wonder if their faculties suffered from some form of impairment.
Amidst my ceaseless weeping, one of the women delicately cradled me in her arms, passing me tenderly to another figure upon the bed. Though their words eluded my understanding, I sensed the depth of their affection conveyed through the gentle cadence of their voices.
And then, a man burst into the room.
His eyes alighted upon the woman and the thriving newborn, and his face erupted in a jubilant smile, accompanied by unrestrained laughter.
An oddity, indeed.
In the midst of my tears, a ray of sunlight caught my attention, momentarily quelling my cries. Its radiant beams danced upon my gaze, captivating my tender senses. The sight was so awe-inspiring, so exquisite, that it stole my breath away. The occupants of the room reacted with a blend of panic and bewilderment, unable to comprehend the significance of my reaction.
And in that sublime moment, I silently marveled at the sheer beauty of the day.
Author's note:
(1) - AN ETERNITY LATER
I sincerely hope you relished this chapter. Please share your thoughts in the comments, and may your day be filled with wonder. XOXO